Turkey 0-3 Portugal: What Were The Main Talking Points As Portugal Cruise Their Way To A Euro 24 Knockout Stage Ticket?

Putting in what was a dominant performance in rural Germany on Saturday evening, Portugal cruised their way to a EURO 24 knockout stage ticket thanks to a 3-0 romp against Turkey.

Not really having to get out of third gear in Dortmund, Roberto Martinez’s men opened the scoring midway through the first-half as Manchester City ace Bernardo Silva produced a first time finish.

Tipped as a potential European dark horse this summer, the 2016 champions doubled their lead just seven minutes later thanks to a calamitous own goal when defender Samet Akaydin did not look up before passing it back to Bayindir, who could not prevent the ball from rolling into his own net.

With Turkey always facing a monumental challenge this weekend, the Crescent Stars failed to find any kind of fluidity on either side of the half-time interval.

Portugal eventually stormed their way to a knockout stage spot when Cristiano Ronaldo unselfishly teed up Bruno Fernandes for a tap-in to make it 3-0 before an hour was played.

In a showdown that was largely one-way traffic in Dortmund, we have taken a look at the main talking points.

Portugal make a major statement of intent

Embarking on what was a remarkable EURO 24 qualifying romp last year as they won all of their 10 group stage appearances by an aggregate score of 36-2, Portugal have continued to shine under the guidance of Martinez.

Although the likes of England and now-former world champions France might have been pencilled in as a the standout pre-tournament contenders this summer, the Navigators have continued to receive a string of plaudits from across the continent.

Mounting a dramatic late comeback against the Czech Republic last week as they eventually snatched a 2-1 victory, Portugal should have their sights firmly set on mounting a genuine late charge this summer.

Winning both of their opening two EURO 24 appearances this season and gaining a reputation for their free-flowing approach under the former Belgium…

Source link : https://www.soccernews.com/turkey-0-3-portugal-what-were-the-main-talking-points-as-portugal-cruise-their-way-to-a-euro-24-knockout-stage-ticket/372988/

Author : Tom Dunstan

Publish date : 2024-06-23 08:27:38

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.